Iím possibly looking at my first classic truck purchase. A 77 F150 with 460 cubic inch 4 barrel and automatic C6. Restoration 2 years ago including body work, paint, new wheels and tires, windshield, etc etc. Owner claims $10,000 in professional work done. My hope is for this to be a regular driver but not a daily driver.

My question is, what are some questions to ask/things to look out for regarding the 77 and 70s trucks in general?
Any pitfalls to avoid?
Issues with this motor/tranny?
Etc

Thankful for any and all input!

-ECS

ps- truck is located in north east so rust is a concern though owner states minimal rust underneath.

check ALL wiring, rubber hoses/ belts for dry rot or wear (they are commonly overlooked), floor boards, rad support, for rust. Make sure it drives straight as well as stop straight. The C6 was a damn good trans, not much went bad with them

also if he is claiming that much work i would want to see reciepts for work performed, if he can't produce then assume he is just blowing smoke...you don't want to buy someone elses problem

That it's NOT going to be a turnkey experience, no matter how much work was actually done by any P.O. It WILL need constant maintenance, and frequent repairs, and (increasingly-)hard-to-find parts, and (increasingly-)hard-to-find mechanics who know how it's supposed to work and how to figure out why it's not working that way, and... If you're not prepared to maintain & repair it yourself, you'd better have a LOT of disposable income to pour onto this truck. It will NOT be comfortable, convenient, reliable, durable, powerful, functional, or economical by modern standards. You might not even be able to register it for use on public roads in some places, so do a LOT of research before making a decision.

This is not a popular antique vehicle, so if you get bored with it or tired of it soon, it won't be as easy to sell as a '77 Corvette or Bronco.

My 1977 is unrestored. It is comfortable, reliable, and powerful enough to do what I want it to do. We have had it since new. It has never been behind a tow truck nor required a repair that couldn't be done at home.

I think my expectations are pretty realistic. Donít have any great need for speed or power. I donít care if the ride is rough and loud and the seat isnít the best. I donít plan any long hauls in the highway. I donít need all the modern amenities, just a working heater. I donít care about the terrible mileage or pore safety. I have no problem doing basic maintenance and repairs like changing fluids, belts, brake pads, and the such. I donít mind putting in some wrench time and a few dollars on the regular. With that said, Iím not set up to be able to pull the engine or remove the cab/box, jobs needing specialized tools, etc.

My concerns are more centered around reliability and any special issues with this year and model. I donít want this thing to not start every time I try and turn it over. Everything Iíve been able to find so far online says these are a pretty reliable package, but I figured this is likely the place to find the someone who knows best on the matter.

Any other input on what to look for and what to ask for from the seller would be GREATLY appreciated!

Also are there any changes that could/should be made to increase reliability? Iím thinking mainly motor but maybe thereís other things like brakes, etc.

When that truck was new, it was very reliable. About the only weak link I can find fault in is the ignition control module. Sometimes they are problematic. Sometimes not,.though. My 1977 still has its original...They are cheap and simple to change,.though.

Jan. 2017,Beginning full cab off resto. Bought used 1984.
Bought mine in 1984 and have never driven it in winter months but did have small cab rust spots (2), plus the biggest issue for you to check are the frame cab mounts (look for new bushings but not 100% proof) and radiator core support/mounts both are very difficult to detect rust but can be repaired, look at the character lines noting that they are in alignment.
As for parts in general are not that difficult to find or fab if necessary, for not being popular there seems to be alot of people wanting them. No they are not Corvettes but by the ride one might wonder.
If done correctly, 10k for a like new daily driver is by far less $$ than a 2018 or 2019 making its poorer mpg look not as expensive plus a standout from the crowd of pick ups..
My point of view only with no offence to others.
Good Luck in your quest

The only reliability issue i ever had and only once was the distributor control module (By the way its the only electronic control module) when it goes... you do not, bought a new one, two actually, replaced it (1/4" nut driver) and 10 minutes time i was going again. That was 1986, the other one i bought as back up is still in the small tool bag with nut driver waiting just in case.
These trucks are so easy to work on that its a sin how complicated the new ones are plus the outragious expense which makes up for the mpg. Just some effort and they can become quite comfortable ( seats from a 96' bolt right in ) and quiet with some sound deadner added.